May Praise Transform Me

“Great and wonderful are all Your works, Lord, God Almighty!" Revelations 15:3

Some people think that faith is like "positive thinking". You claim good over evil, prosperity over need, the fulfillment of all wishes and desires. But faith, real uncompromising faith, glorifies God because you see the reality of your true condition. You face sickness and you proclaim, "Praise God even now!" An 'I can't do anything about this' situation taunts you and you shout out, "Great and wonderful are You O God, still!" You face your loved one’s imminent death after prayers of healing and deliverance, and countless visits to so many doctors, and you are able to say at his or her death bed, "You are soooo soooo good, Lord!"

Does faith come first or does praise? If your faith is weak, praise will give it strength. There is a story of a poor black pastor who grew up among slaves. Charles A. Tindley, was pastoring a small church when a blizzard struck his town. His baby had died and his family did not have anything to eat. In spite of all that, he praised God mightily!

"Set the table mama," he instructed his wife who knew there was nothing but stale bread to put on it. In a while a member of his congregation arrived, laden with groceries to the delight of the children! Reverend Charles Albert Tindley, later became known as the "Prince of Preachers", and founded one of the largest Methodist congregations serving the African-American community in Philadelphia. A grandson of his father's master was even converted by him. We can say that his gratefulness and thankfulness made his faith strong, stronger in adversity!

Lord, may my praise transform me! May my faith turn my challenges into blessings!